Gauge Overlay Installation

OK, let me start off by saying that this is a very easy way to improve or update the look of your stock F-150 gauges. I got this aluminum gauge overlay from SpeedHut.com. It was a mere $20 plus shipping. A pretty cheap mod if you ask me.

Disclaimer: Please note that this articles are posted strictly for informational and educational purposes only. www.fordf150.net is not responsible for any modifications you may make to your vehicle, nor the results you may have. Performing some of the procedures shown on this site may void your warranty. If in doubt, check with Ford or your local dealer for assistance.

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Tools Required:

• 7/32" socket to remove cluster lens
• 7mm socket for dash panel
• Screwdriver with socket attachment or small ratchet
• small thin tool

Time Required:

• 30 minutes

What's in the Box:

• The kit comes with instructions, the overlay, and two-sided tape (which you may not need)

Let's get on to the install.

1. The first step is to disconnect the negative battery cable

2. You now need to remove the plastic panel around the steering column. Just grasp at the corners and pull to release it. Set this aside. Here is a photo of it partially removed:

3. The next step is to remove the headlight switch. To do that:

• Turn the headlights to on and pull the switch out a little bit
• Then look at the bottom of the knob, you should see a very small opening
• Insert a very thin tool into the knob, and that should release the knob
• Rotate the knob 180 degrees and reinstall it. The bottom of the knob should now be pointing at the headlights on position
• Now, turn the knob counter-clockwise like you're turning the lights off.
• Turn the knob back to the headlights on position. This is what releases the entire switch assembly from the dash.
• Pull the assembly to remove it. Be sure to disconnect the 3 wiring harnesses

4. Once that's removed, you need to remove the plastic trim around the gauges. There are seven screws that need to come out: three at the top of the cluster, one hiding behind the headlight switch, and 3 that are now exposed that were behind the steering column panel. The screws have a 7mm head on them.

5. The panel should be loose now. Gently pull the panel away from the rest of the dash and set it aside.

6. Once that's done, you need to remove the instrument cluster lens (the clear part). On my truck, there were five pink screws. Four along the bottom and three along the top. The screws have a 7/32" head on them. Here I am with my socket and extension removing one of the screws:

7. Your truck may or may not have another black trim piece around the gauge cluster. My 1998 truck had it. It had to be removed in order for the gauge overlay to fit on. If your truck doesn't have this, don't worry about it.

8. Now, you should be looking at the actual gauges. Simply place the aluminum gauge overlay over the gauges. The overlay I received had an odometer reset button hole that was just a tad bit too small. I enlarged the hole using a 9/32" drill bit, and it fit over snugly. So if you're overlay doesn't fit over just perfect, that's probably why.

9. Now put everything back together in the reverse order. Here is the finished product, looks good!